Old Muscat

Muscat, Oman

Historic centre with traditional forts, palaces and waterfront promenade

Places in Old Muscat

Bin Ateeq Restaurant specialising in traditional Omani cuisine in heritage house overlooking harbour
Kargeen Traditional Arabian café in heritage house serving coffee, tea and light pastries

Best time to visit: October to April brings pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring. May to September is extremely hot (40°C+) and humid. September–October sees occasional khareef (monsoon) winds. December–February is peak season with higher prices.
Getting around: A car is essential—taxis and ride-sharing apps are limited. Driving is safe with good roads. Hire a 4WD for mountain and desert exploration. The city is not walkable; distances are significant.
Currency: Omani Rial (OMR). Cards accepted at hotels and malls.
Language: Arabic. English widely spoken.
Timezone: Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC+4
Current trends: Traditional Omani cuisine gaining recognition with heritage recipes elevated to fine-dining standards. Sustainable tourism and eco-lodges in the desert gain prominence. Adventure tourism and mountain trekking attract outdoor enthusiasts. Wellness retreats leverage Arabian hospitality traditions.

Muttrah — The ancient port area with the famous souk and corniche.
Mutrah — Historic trading port with traditional souks, dhows and waterfront character
Qurum — Modern neighbourhood with restaurants, cafés and upscale accommodations
Shatti al-Qurm — Beachfront area with corniche walks, beach clubs and waterfront dining